Synopsis
The movie “Club Paradise” is a lighthearted story in which comedian Robin Williams portrays the role of a Chicago firefighter turned retiree after he narrowly escapes death. Looking for something slower, he relocates to the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Nicholas where he partners with local businessman Ernest Reed to restore a failing beach resort. Club Paradise, the titular resort, becomes quite the hot spot for different offbeat tourists looking to be able to deal with everything from strange couples to uptight business people to simply find some time alone. Unfortunately, the pair runs into some obstacles in the form of unprincipled politicians and self centered real estate developers eager to cash in on the islands natural beauty and resources.
The feel good adventures subsume the perfect magic of paradise with features such as tremor belly laughs, tropical landscapes, and calmness.
Awards & Wins
Although “Club Paradise” wasn’t a critical darling, its cult following has kept it in conversation among fans of 1980s comedies. While it didn’t win any major awards, the film is remembered for its ensemble cast and tropical setting.
Cast & Crew
- Director: Harold Ramis (known for Caddyshack and Groundhog Day)
- Writer: Harold Ramis and Brian Doyle-Murray
- Key Cast:
- Robin Williams as Jack Moniker
- Jimmy Cliff as Ernest Reed
- Peter O’Toole as Governor Anthony Cloyden Hayes
- Twiggy as Phillipa Lloyd
- Eugene Levy and Rick Moranis as Barry and Barry
- Andrea Martin as Linda White
The cast boasts a mix of comedy heavyweights and dramatic talents, creating an eclectic group of personalities on-screen.
IMDb Ratings
The film has a modest 5.0/10 on IMDb, reflecting its mixed reception. Critics pointed out uneven pacing but praised its humor and Robin Williams’ energetic performance.
Personal Insights
“Club Paradise” manages to capitalize on its eccentricity yet its storyline looks quite disjointed at times. As long as there is Robin Williams in the film, the film does not sink, while Jimmy Cliff’s songs add the needed coolness and touch of soul. It has the feeling of being an ’80s comedy flick which has slapstick, eccentric humor and lots of endearing scenes.
Cultural Significance
The film remains a testament to 80’s pop culture, steeped in the influence of the Caribbean getaway fantasies. Jimmy Cliff’s participation connects the two opposing worlds of Hollywood and reggae, taking this genre to an altogether different level. Also, it can be said to be a light humorous sketch on tourism and the effects for poorer countries, but avoids politics and remains lighthearted in mood.
To the audience adoring all the fanciful works of Robin Williams or looking for globetrotting comedies, extra ‘Club Paradise’ is something of light entertainment, though with plenty of hiccups.
